Beta version of 64-bit Google Chrome now available

Google has shifted the 64-bit Windows version of its Chrome browser from the developer channels to the main beta channel, while in the process addressing many issues with stability. If you haven't as yet checked out the long-awaited upgrade, now would be a good time to do so.

The 64-bit version of Chrome is designed to use the full potential of modern processors and their instruction sets, primarily delivering speed boosts of up to 25% when webpages are heavily loaded with media content. Security has also been improved, reducing the damage that can be caused by an exploit.

Moving into the beta channel is the last step for 64-bit Chrome before a final, stable release, which should occur in around six weeks' time. It's unclear if Google will offer the 64-bit version alongside the 32-bit version, or automatically upgrade all eligible users to the 64-bit version when it's released.

Linux users have been blessed by a 64-bit version of Chrome for some time now, however there's no word on whether a Mac version is ready for even an alpha release. Although Google typically updates Chrome on all platforms simultaneously, the 64-bit upgrade has been staggered.